For nearly 50 years the tallest building in the world, the Empire State was superlative from its beginning. During its construction, the true height of 1250 feet was kept secret to outdo the builders of the Chrysler Building being built at the same time. The spire was designed as a dirigible docking port, though it was never used for that purpose. Construction of the building was completed in a rapid 14 months, though after it opened in 1930 it was not fully occupied for 20 years.